We are seeking undergraduates to participate in an eight-week summer research program in science and engineering. The program will focus on applications from biomedical, chemical, computer, electrical, material science, and mechanical engineering as well as applied mathematics and science majors. Students must have completed their sophomore year of an engineering, pre-engineering or science-based curriculum with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

The device projects focus on circuit and process design for applying molecular electronics and quantum dot devices towards computation, while materials projects include modeling of nanomaterial assemblies and life-cycle assessments of nanomaterials applied in common products. Unique features of this REU include the presence of design experience as a central component of each sub-project, the use of a research team model that includes peers and mentors, the use of REU training to spur interest in students for graduate studies, and the inclusion social and educational perspectives within these design experience projects, so that the undergraduate students may be motivated by the broader implications, and learn by developing educational materials for lab courses within current curricula.

Students in this NSF/REU will have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members and graduate students. Students will be responsible for a written and oral final report as well as submitting a poster of research findings. Program participants will take a 2-credit seminar course examining he societal and ethical implications of nanotechnology research. They will also have numerous social opportunities; including Friday evening outings to Charlottesville's historic downtown mall for "Fridays After Five" and weekend hiking opportunities in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park.

Information:

All students receive a $4,500 (pre-tax) stipend and free, on-campus living accomodations.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States.

Women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Applicants must submit the following information:

Application, including potential research labs of interest

Statement of research interest and desirability as a candidate for this program

Resume

Two letters of reference (from current or previous faculty at home institution)

**Important Note
While reviewing the research topics of previous years, be aware that all topics are chosen based upon the interests of the students. Those considering REU should review the research opportunities offered by the following University of Virginia departments: Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering, Astronomy, Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Material Science Engineering, Neuroscience, Physics, and Systems Engineering.